Richard Winters

Dick Winters is the primary character of the book. At Easy Company's inception, Winters began as 2nd Lieutenant. When the company made its initial parachute jump into Normandy, Winters became Easy's de facto commanding officer. Eventually, he was appointed as the official commanding officer of the company, but was quickly promoted. By the end of Easy Company's three-year tour, Winters was promoted to the rank of Major.

Winters' primary adversary in the book was Easy's first commanding officer, Captain Herbert Sobel. Unlike Sobel, Winters was universally liked by the men. Winters was not arrogant and did not seek medals. Unlike many military men, he did not gamble or drink alcohol. Winters was described as being worshiped and held in high regard due to his kind nature, high expectations and leadership skills when leading the men into combat. Winters demonstrated his uncanny ability to make decisions in the...